Nicki Minaj, American Idol Judge: Female MC Joins Mariah Carey, Randy Jackson, Keith Urban

Nicki Minaj officially takes a seat on the American Idol judge panel alongside Mariah Carey, Randy Jackson and Keith Urban.  The female MC is going to be compensated $12 million for the year, accordion to a report on Washington Post.  

Since Jennifer Lopez and Steven Tyler's departure from the panel, there were many contenders whose names kept popping out including Adam Lambert, Katy Perry, Nick Jonas and more.

The announcement was made on Sunday Sept. 16, 2012.  The 12th season is expected to be fresh with a four member judge panel instead of the typical three.  Ryan Seacrest will continue to host Idol.

Minaj is expected to add a different level of freshness and perspective to the show.  Both MInaj and Urban are chart-topping artists that are making an impact in the music industry now.  Carey is considered a living icon and is like valued gem anywhere she is placed.  

Randy Jackson, who was rumored to take on a mentor role instead of being a judge, remains as the only original judge on the panel.

Are you excited to see Minaj on the panel?